Why QuickBooks Multi-User Mode Is Not Working and How to Fix It
QuickBooks Multi-User Mode allows multiple users to work on the same company file at the same time, improving collaboration and productivity for small and medium-sized businesses.
Charles Garfield 
QuickBooks Multi-User Mode allows multiple users to work on the same company file at the same time, improving collaboration and productivity for small and medium-sized businesses. However, many users experience an issue where QuickBooks fails to switch to multi-user mode. This can disrupt accounting operations and create data access delays. Let’s explore the common reasons behind this problem and the best ways to fix it.
Why Multi-User Mode Stops Working
Several factors can cause QuickBooks Multi-User Mode to malfunction, including:
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Incorrect Hosting Configuration: When more than one system or none at all hosts the company file.
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Firewall or Security Software Blocking Access: QuickBooks services and ports may be restricted.
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Disabled QuickBooks Database Server Manager: This service allows multiple users to connect.
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Network Issues or Incorrect Permissions: Shared folders may lack proper read/write permissions.
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Damaged .ND (Network Data) File: This file helps QuickBooks identify the network location of the company file.
How to Fix the Problem
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Check Hosting Configuration
Make sure only the server computer hosts the company file.-
On each workstation, open QuickBooks and go to File > Utilities.
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If you see “Host Multi-User Access,” do not select it. If it shows “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access,” click it to disable hosting on that computer.
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Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager
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Open QuickBooks Tools Hub > Network Issues tab.
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Launch Database Server Manager, scan the folder containing your company file, and restart the service.
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Configure Windows Firewall and Security Settings
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Allow QuickBooks applications and ports (8019, 56728, etc.) through the firewall.
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Ensure that QBDBMgrN.exe and QBCFMonitorService.exe are not blocked by antivirus software.
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Verify Folder Permissions
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Right-click the folder with your company file.
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Go to Properties > Security and grant full access to all QuickBooks users.
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Use QuickBooks File Doctor Tool
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Download and run the tool from the QuickBooks Tools Hub to automatically diagnose and repair network-related issues.
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Conclusion
By following these steps, you can quickly restore access to QuickBooks Multi-User Mode and ensure uninterrupted teamwork. Regularly updating QuickBooks, maintaining network stability, and configuring proper user permissions help prevent future connectivity issues.
